Reviews: Exit Through The Gift Shop

Last week, I purchased a ticket and took my seat before the screen with only the most basic knowledge of what I was about to see; the title. I was nervous, having always selected movies based on at least a little research in the past. However, it was also exciting to be going in blind, with no preconceived ideas or expectations. Fortunately, this seemed to be the ideal way to approach Exit Through the Gift Shop. For this reason, all I’m prepared to tell you is that this film is about street art, street artists and the importance and intrigue of documenting this illegal – yet unstoppable – practice.

Surrounded by one of the best audiences I’ve ever had the pleasure of being a part of, I was totally engaged by this documentary. And don’t let the fact that it’s a doco put you off – the opportunity to experience the reality of something that has always been kept under wraps leads to a fascinating narrative, driven by equally fascinating personalities.

I urge you to track down this film. It’s insightful, funny, and just so damn ridiculous. It raises all kinds of questions about the value and significance of modern art, and whether anything can be truly original or meaningful in our society. Equally enjoyable for those with a pre-existing interest in street art and those with no knowledge of the culture at all, Exit Through the Gift Shop is definitely worth a watch.